WITH the PVL Draft order now sealed among the fancied 12 teams, all eyes are on top overall pick prospect Bella Belen on whether she will stay or bring her act overseas.
The three-time UAAP MVP and former National University star banners the 60 hopefuls for the proceedings set for June 8.
Belen, 22, said over the weekend that she is joining the Draft but is also pondering over opportunities to play abroad.
Capital1, owned by Milka Romero, hit the jackpot last Monday night in the Draft lottery at the TV5 Launchpad Center in Mandaluyong after the Solar Spikers bagged the No. 1 selection in the event slated to take place at the Novotel Hotel Araneta City.
Owning the top choice should augur well for the Solar Spikers, who placed second in the inaugural Draft last year as they look to further bolster their line-up for the coming season.
The charming Romero, daughter of sports patron Mikee, was elated no end.
“Clearly, sa reaction ko talaga, pang-pageant iyong surprise ko. Again, it’s always chance. With lotteries like this, it’s really given to chance. Now, as management, we won’t take that chance for granted and it’s an opportunity for us to strengthen the team statistically and technically,” Romero said. “We’re looking at our next moves not just for one player but for our whole franchise as Capital1, how do we define ourselves in the professional league in many more years to come. This is a good turning point for us.”
“We’re building this team. Last Draft helped a lot. This one would build into what we already started with my sister and I. Mandy and I are very excited that we can bring in more players, especially with what has transpired (in the lottery). Sana, mayroon tayong magic six na ma-bu-build,” she added.
Romero admitted that Belen has been on their radar but also reiterated the long-term vision and goal they have.
“I take it day by day. Of course, nasa shortlist siya (Belen). That’s what I can say, but what the team needs is more important and what we see in our long-term plan with the management, the coaches,” Romero said. “Just because we don’t want to think of the moment pero we want to think of next year and many more seasons to come.
“Who will be there to build the foundation. We have a lot to build with our team so very interesting and exciting.”
PVL chief Sherwin Malonzo revealed that the salary cap for the incoming top four rookies from the Draft has been increased by 10 percent compared to last year’s figures.
From a P150,000 salary base for the top overall pick, this year’s first overall draftee can receive a P165,000 salary base. The 10 percent increase in the salary scale also applies to the second (P150,000), third (P135,000) and fourth (P120,000) overall picks.
